Intrapartum care for obese women

Obesity increases the likelihood of intrapartum complications and the need for intervention during labour. Both maternal and fetal monitoring may be challenging. Specialized equipment and additional staff are often needed to ensure patient safety. Labour induction is more frequent, mostly due to post-term pregnancy, medical and obstetrical complications. There is also an increased rate of failed labour induction. The first stage of labour usually takes longer, so longer time-intervals are needed to diagnose protracted or arrested labour. The duration of the second stage of labour remains unchanged. Healthcare providers must be prepared to deal with a higher rate of instrumental vaginal deliveries and shoulder dystocia. Obese women have an increased risk of postpartum haemorrhage. Preventive administration of uterotonics is strongly recommended.